Checklist

To do list for your safari

Tips from our specialists

By Frank, Jan 7, 2018

Baggage on safari should be carefully considered. One soft-sided bag and one smaller piece of hand luggage per person is recommended, weighing not more than 20kg on small Southern Africa charter flights. You may have to pay for an extra seat on a charter flight if the luggage is heavier than 20 kg. This allowance includes camera equipment.

Days on safari are generally hot and call for shorts and t-shirt. In the mornings and evenings, long-sleeved shirts and pants are better and will also protect you from mosquitoes. For those sensitive to the sun, a loose cotton shirt is a good bet during the day, as is sunscreen. For colder mornings, layering clothing helps keep you warm and is a convenient way to ensure you’re wearing what you need as the day heats up. Some lodges have a dress code, but this is quite liberal, with some restrictions on shorts and swimsuits in the evening.

Dull and/or neutral colours are suitable for safari; you want to blend in as much as possible with nature. White is not practical. It is best to pack hardy, durable clothing. Best stay away from camo, as in many places in Africa only the military wear camouflage clothing and – in those areas – you might be arrested for it.

Yellow Fever Inoculation certificate – if travelling to Zambia or East Africa, you need to have a yellow fever inoculation (no less than 10 days prior to travel) and will need to have a certificate/card as proof when entering the country.